Ages 8 to 10Strong research
First talk about tobacco, before age 10
Gutkha, khaini, bidis and cigarettes: what they do, and how to say no.
Why It Matters (Clinical Guidance)
- Half of Indian students who use smokeless tobacco started before age 10.
- On average, children first try khaini or gutkha at about 10.
- Selling tobacco to under-18s, or near schools, is banned.
Primary Citation: Global Youth Tobacco Survey 4 (2019); COTPA
Last checked: October 2026 • Medical review panel forming